The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has encouraged local manufacturers to actively explore the export potential of their products by seeking essential market information and following proper procedures.
Hadiza Kashiat, Head of Product and Marketing Department at NEPC’s Ogun State office, delivered this message during a Strategic Focus Group meeting organized by the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) in Abeokuta, Ogun State. The meeting, themed “Made in Nigeria for Everyone”, focused on challenges and solutions for Nigeria’s manufacturing sector.
Challenges Facing Nigerian Manufacturers in Exporting Goods
Kashiat emphasized that one of the significant barriers to export success for Nigerian manufacturers is the lack of awareness and adherence to export market procedures. She noted that while NEPC provides valuable resources, many business owners fail to take advantage of them.
“Many manufacturers do not actively seek the necessary information for exporting their products. Even when we distribute publications with essential guidelines, most Nigerians do not read them. Instead of just complaining, we must utilize the available information,” she stated.
The Need to Support Made-in-Nigeria Products
The NEPC official also urged Nigerians to shift their perception of locally made products, highlighting their superior quality compared to some imported alternatives. She pointed out that rejecting locally produced goods hinders economic growth.
“As Nigerians, we need to rethink our perception. Many made-in-Nigeria products are durable and of high quality. Some of our products are exported and rebranded abroad before being resold at higher prices. For example, Nigerian lubricant is among the best in the world. Additionally, Malaysia still imports Nigerian palm oil. If we continue to overlook our own products, how can we grow our economy?” she questioned.
NASENI’s Commitment to Strengthening Local Manufacturing
Speaking at the event, NASENI’s team leader, Mr. Babajide Soyya, stressed that low demand for Nigerian-made products not only affects the economy but also contributes to rising unemployment. He explained that by importing foreign goods, Nigerians indirectly export job opportunities to other countries.
To combat this, NASENI is working closely with key industry players to promote local production. The agency is actively engaging manufacturers, gathering insights, and signing Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with various industries to foster technological advancement and improve product quality.
“We are collaborating with industries and empowering skilled labor to drive innovation. By doing so, we aim to boost local production and enhance the competitiveness of Nigerian-made products in global markets,” Soyya added.
Key Stakeholders Advocate for Industrial Growth
The meeting, which was the fourth in its series following similar events in Lagos, Kano, and Kaduna, brought together several industry stakeholders. Among the attendees were representatives from:
- Nigeria Association of Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA)
- Ogun State Chamber of Commerce, Mines, and Agriculture (OGCCIMA)
- Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN)
- National Association of Small Scale Industries (NASSI)
- Faculty of Engineering, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB)
The stakeholders emphasized the importance of continuous collaboration between manufacturers and government agencies to improve Nigeria’s industrial sector.
Final Thoughts: Driving Economic Growth Through Exports
NEPC’s call to action is a wake-up call for Nigerian manufacturers to tap into the vast opportunities within the export market. By prioritizing product quality, complying with global trade requirements, and leveraging industry collaborations, local producers can unlock international market opportunities and contribute significantly to Nigeria’s economic growth.
For more details on export opportunities, visit the NEPC official website or explore industry reports on World Bank’s trade database.
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